Dental anxiety is an extremely common occurrence. It’s estimated that between 15% and 20% of the U.S. population avoids going to the dentist because of anxiety.
Speak up about your fears
It’s important to speak up if you experience fear or anxiety during dental treatments. It’s common to have fears and anxieties, and your dentist is trained to help you feel relaxed and safe during your treatments.
If you tell your dentist about your anxiety, they will likely talk through your options together and find the best solution to ease your concerns. This may include taking breaks between treatments, using numbing gel, or choosing another treatment option altogether.
Dentists have a variety of ways to soothe patients’ fears, so don’t hesitate to discuss the best treatment for you. The key is to voice your concern so it can be addressed prior to your appointment so you can receive the most appropriate and effective treatment possible.
Take a trusted person with you
Having someone you trust there can make going to the dentist less scary. Sometimes just having a familiar face in the room can make it much easier to sit in the dental chair. Even if you are nervous about sitting in the waiting room alone, knowing that someone you know and trust is nearby can give you comfort throughout your entire appointment.
If the thought of sitting through the appointment makes you feel anxious and stressed, bring someone who can help you relax.
Bringing a friend along can also provide you with helpful support throughout the visit. Friends are great at distracting you from the sounds and sights of the office. They can provide comforting conversation and help you feel more comfortable in the dental chair. They can even be your “hand holder,” which can help you feel a lot calmer during the procedure.
When you take a loved one to your appointment, your dentist will be able to explain the treatment process to them as well. They can answer questions that you might have and help calm your nerves. If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming dental treatment, ask us about it. We can help you to feel calmer and better informed about what is happening next.
Bring distractions
Bringing a distraction can make you more comfortable at the dentist’s office. You can bring anything that helps you relax, such as music, a book or magazine, knitting, crossword puzzles, or something else that occupies your time and your mind.
Distractions can help make your time at the dental office go by faster too! Sometimes even the best dentists are not your favorite people in the world – so having something else to think about besides your teeth can help you relax.
Do you have questions about your oral health or dental care in general? Visit Newport Smiles Dental Spa at 570 W 19th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, or call (949) 642-1033.